Tag: global entry

Since I’ve kicked my travel game up a notch over the past couple years, there are a few travel tips that I’ve embraced along the way.

Do get Global Entry. The best present I’ve given myself in recent years is Global Entry. It allows you to breeze through US customs, includes TSA Pre✓® and lasts for 5 years. AND it’s only $100. Definitely a worthwhile investment.

Do let the deal guide you. I’ve gotten the chance to experience some great destinations, for cheap, by simply paying attention to flight deals. I never gave thought to going to Dubai, but when I got an alert about flights for under $300, it was a no-brainer. Some of my favorite sites to follow are airfarewatchdog and The Flight Deal. Get hip!

Do get travel insurance. Travel insurance works like any other insurance. You may think, “I don’t want to pay another $20-$40”. Well, you never know what may happen, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Everyone knows how much of a pain change and cancellation fees can be. Save yourself the potential headache and just get the insurance,

I used to be a last minute packer. I also used to be the traveler that sat snuggled on the plane, all ready for my next adventure, only to be struck by panic when I realized I left an important item at home. Packing 2-3 days out makes such a difference. Not only do you have time to go through your checklist several times, but you also have time to edit. No, you probably don’t need 5 pairs of shoes for a weekend jaunt.

Don’t travel with people you don’t like. I’ve heard horror stories of people’s trips being ruined because they decided to go on a trip with people that they didn’t really like in the first place. When traveling, especially outside of the country, it’s super important that you not only get along with your fellow travelers but that you actually like them. No need to ruin a perfectly good trip with bad company.

Do be open minded. “I don’t eat that.” “I don’t like that.” “I’d never do that.” Don’t be that type of traveler. You never know what magical things you can discover if you’re open to trying new things. For example, I’m very anti outdoor activities; however, when in Rio de Janeiro I went on a 5 hour hike through Tijuca Forest. From sitting on the bank of a waterfall, listening to the sounds of nature to sitting inside a centuries old tree with bats flying over my head; it was hands down one of the best experiencing I’ve ever had.**Honorable mention: Do know your rights as a flyer. Did you know that you’re entitled to monetary compensation for lost baggage? Or that in lieu of a voucher you can ask for cash? This article from Jet Setter lays out 7 secret passenger rights that you should know.